An investigation will be launched over the fuel industry after suspicions of market distortion, the commission for the protection of competition announced on Wednesday.

The investigation will cover the time period between 2023 and 2024, taking into account data from the commerce ministry, press reports and “a broader perception that petrol prices differ by district and area”.

The commission said it has the power to conduct investigations into specific sectors of the economy or into specific types of agreements in different sectors of the market.

It can gather information, statements and carry out inspections.

The investigation will center on wholesale and retail selling prices, as well as the conditions of supply in 95 octane petrol, 98 octane petrol and diesel.

It specified the investigation into the sector is a means to gather information on a particular market so that it can more easily identify potential barriers or potential distortions of competition.

Last month the consumers association called for authorities to investigate why different cities have different petrol prices.

Paphos was documented as having the highest average price for all fuel, while Famagusta has the smallest price difference between the most expensive and cheapest fuel.